Architect and Builder Apr/May 2018 | Page 28

NORTH EAST ELEVATION A combination of a grey water harvesting system and low-flow fixtures ensures 40% savings in water consumption. High-performance façades and reflective roof finishes reduce the cooling load on the HVAC system and (in addition to efficient Air Cooled chillers) contribute to 27% energy savings against the ASHRAE baseline. Of course, one of the most effective ways to manage a building’s energy consumption is to ensure that it is properly insulated. Energy models were run at the beginning of the project’s design phase and were used to inform the specification of the building’s façades. Double-glazing, together with sun louvres and air-tightness tests, was employed to ensure that the building was designed relative to its specific micro-climate. The end result was not only a reduced load on the building’s systems but also vastly improved comfort levels for the building’s end-user. Alternative transport facilities such as bicycle racks and a well-connected public transport network encourages occupants to reduce their carbon footprint. Occupant health and well-being is ensured with the use of low VOC coatings and nearly 30% higher fresh air rate above the SANS guideline. Lastly, resource efficiency is ensured through the use of local materials with a high recycled value and zero-ODP refrigerant based chillers achieve reduced emissions. Landscaping between Gateway West and Gateway East 28 Gateway West